Company Formation in Türkiye in 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting a business in Türkiye involves several legal steps. This guide is designed to help international entrepreneurs understand the process of establishing a company in Türkiye in 2025.
1. Creating a Business Plan
- Defining the Business Activity: Choose your business activity and learn about the necessary requirements.
- Choosing the Company Type: Evaluate factors such as capital requirements, number of partners, and tax advantages to decide on the right company type.
- Financing: Secure financial resources for the startup phase and develop a sustainable business plan.
- Selecting a Company Name: Choose a unique company name and verify its availability through the TOBB Turkey Trade Registry Gazette.
2. Preparing the Articles of Association
- Articles of Association: Draft the company’s constitution, which should include details about the company name, objectives, and shareholder rights.
- MERSİS Registration: Submit the articles of association for approval through MERSİS (Central Registry Record System) to ensure transparency and security in business activities.
3. Preparing Signature Declarations for Company Officials
- Signature Declarations: Obtain signature declarations for company officials. These are registered at trade registry offices and notaries.
4. Registering with the Trade Registry
- Trade Registry Registration: Officially register the company with the trade registry to commence business operations legally.
5. Tax Registration
- Tax Registration: Register the company with the tax office, obtain a tax number, and fulfill tax obligations.
6. Obtaining Necessary Permits
- Permits: Depending on the industry, various permits may be required. For example, food businesses must obtain food safety permits.
Company Formation for Foreigners
- Legal Framework: Foreigners can establish a company in Türkiye under Turkish Commercial Law.
- Foreign Investors: Foreign investments are regulated by the Law No. 4875 on Foreign Direct Investment, which promotes investment freedom, equal treatment, and incentives.
- Establishment Process: Foreign entrepreneurs must comply with the same regulations as local investors, including defining the company name, business scope, head office address, management structure, capital, and shareholders.
Additional Information
- Costs: Establishing a company in Türkiye involves various costs, such as trade registry fees, tax registration, social security registration, notary fees, and chamber of commerce membership fees.
- Expert Consultancy: Foreign investors are encouraged to seek professional consultancy to comply with local regulations.
This guide provides an overview of the essential steps and legal requirements for company formation in Türkiye in 2025. International entrepreneurs can use this information to establish their businesses successfully in Türkiye.